For centuries, massage therapy has been used for soothing physical illnesses, treating physical stress, as well as improving health and wellbeing. These days, it can be used as a complementary therapy to other treatments.
Most people like to have a back massage; however, a foot massage is also a relaxing method to address issues with the internal organs in the body. Massage therapy includes the application of proper approaches, pressure, strokes, and essential oils. Aromatherapy massage combines the power of essential oils with that of massage therapy. Such a combination offers positive effects on both the body and mind.
Using Essential Oils for Massage
In a massage setting, essential oils are blended with carrier oils. The latter helps the essential oils get absorbed by the skin without the risk of being too strong and potentially burn the skin. Loving Essential Oils are popular for their ability to help improve health and wellbeing. They can boost the effectiveness of any massage. The top essential oils are not necessarily the best oils to use during a massage. You may purchase any essential oil; however, high-quality oils are not cheap.
The Best Essential Oils for Massage
Below are some of the best essential oils that can be used for massage because of their inherent relaxing and soothing properties:
- Lavender. This is an adaptogenic/balancing oil found to be effective in relieving pain, insomnia, and stress. Just ensure you invest in true lavender and not spike lavender, lavender fragrance, or lavandin.
- Geranium. This essential oil is famous for its relaxing and uplifting effects. Its flowery fragrance adds to the relaxing effects which makes it good to use for massage therapy. Also, a geranium essential oil is good for the skin and its aroma is great to use in terms of spas.
- Mandarin. This oil has a subtle floral aroma for a citrus oil. It is quite gentle and reasonably priced. It can be used for scar tissue, insomnia, and anxiety. Mandarin is gentle enough to use with kids.
- Coriander. This essential oil is sweet and warm and brings a relaxing and soothing atmosphere when used. It is also known for its ability to promote a healthy digestive system and circulatory system.
- Frankincense. It is usually used for grounding, to soothe coughs, deepen breathing, aid in meditation, and promote relaxation. It has antidepressant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Benefits of Aromatherapy Massage
Aromatherapy involves the use of the healing properties and aromas of essential oils. If combined with massage therapy, it can add an extra level of relaxation and healing. Below are some of the benefits of aromatherapy:
- Promote relaxation. If inhaled, essential oils can calm the mind and emotions, encouraging relaxation and stress release. Lavender oil is famous for its calming and sedative properties.
- Improve mood. Adding essential oils to a massage either through homemade massage oils or diffusion can improve your mood and overall wellbeing. In particular, orange essential oil is usually used to uplift mood.
- Reduce pain and inflammation. If used topically on the skin in the form of massage oils, essential oils can relieve pain and inflammation. Massage oils are used to aid in therapeutic massage to relax and soothe muscles as well as increase body circulation and stimulate the tissues.
